Howard County General Hospital Fighting COVID-19 With Infusions

Columbia MD

27 April, 2021

3:36 PM

Description

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — As the only facility in Howard County that administers the monoclonal antibody treatment, Howard County General Hospital has conducted more than 100 outpatient infusions for residents with COVID-19. Monoclonal antibody therapy can help prevent hospitalization or the worsening of symptoms in certain patients with COVID-19 if administered early in the disease. Physician referrals are required for all patients in order to receive this treatment. "Monoclonal antibodies are an important therapy that could be lifesaving. Having this available right here in Howard County makes it more accessible for our residents," Howard County Executive Calvin Ball said. "Throughout this pandemic, our team and private partners have collaborated and exhausted options to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and to save lives. This initiative at Howard County General is another important step to remove barriers to care and ultimately keep our residents safe." On Feb. 9, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an emergency use authorization for the monoclonal antibodies bamlanivimab and etesevimab to be administered together for the treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19 in adults and pediatric patients 12 years of age or older weighing at least 88 pounds who test positive for SARS-CoV-2 and who are at high risk for progressing to severe COVID-19.